Administrative Principles

Reasonable Use Provisions
Allows all property owners to have reasonable economic use of their property when constrained by critical areas. Reasonable use exceptions associated with all single-family residential applications, except for those within geologically hazardous areas, are processed as an Administrative review.

Predictability & Consistency
The Critical Areas Ordinance (CAO) provides clear requirements for permit applicants, county staff and consultants. It is also integrated with other regulations to reduce conﬂicts.